Today we’d like to introduce you to Debbie Buchholz.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
One of my sons, started a 501 (C)3 years ago when he was in high school, and has since moved on with his life’s journey. When I took over running Deaf International, the focus changed from producing Christian videos for the Deaf community to working with Deaf refugees, asylum seekers, and immigrants in the KC metro. Since we hold classes via Zoom, I now work with Deaf refugees from other states in the country, and I also have two students from India who join in.
Under the umbrella of Deaf International we also provide food and hygiene products to Deaf refugees and others who live at or below poverty, do advocacy work for the Deaf community, teach American Sign Language and written English to Deaf refugees, and help with their citizenship process. There are other things we do, and the local Deaf church is also supported by Deaf International at this time. I am the pastor of this church as well. I say that I have 2 full time jobs.
The work I do for the Deaf community began at birth, as I come from a family of hereditary Deafness. I am hard of hearing and carry the gene. My parents were Deaf, and I have Deaf aunts, uncles, cousins, and children.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
As a female pastor who is hard of hearing (Deaf), the road has never been smooth. In the Deaf world, most Christians are members of conservative denominations, and I am ostracized by my male colleagues. Criticism and the treat of hell are the common things I hear. It is never a smooth road for someone born in the margines-the world was designed for the majority. Even though we are called to continue working towards social justice, I know that I will die in the margines. My goal is for my grandchildren to know what it is like to be treated equal.
My Deaf father taught all of his children that God was for hearing people, and we took our place. He died at the age of 96 still believing that God was for hearing people. Even though I preach and teach that all humans are created equal in God’s image, I still stand in the place where children of a lesser God meet.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Director of a 501 (C(3 organization and pastor of a Deaf church.
I think we are unique in that our church is maybe the only stand-alone Deaf church that is Open and Affirming. We have suffered from becoming one as many members have left.
At Deaf International, we love and respect all choices of faith. We do not seek to convert anyone, and we love learning from all religions.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
It is always good to practice within the community and work you are interested in. Immersion is key. I was born into the Deaf world so ASL and the Deaf culture are my native language and culture. For hearing people with no affiliation to a Deaf person, they of course, would have to study and learn ASL and Deaf culture.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.deafinternational.org
